Best Place Possible

Visiting Mom at Cumberland Lodge these days makes me realize she is in the best place possible.   My last visit to Comox was at the end of August when I came to see Mom and Dad, and leave Bella with Dad to dog sit, while Lester and I went to Europe: Italy, Greece, Netherlands. What a wonderful family vacation - we were with Mom's siblings and spouses: Doug, Suzi, Linda, Paul, Vicky and Bruce. Lots of great memories that included Mom as we had many opportunities during the trip to reminisce about our travel (and life) experiences with her. This was a trip of a lifetime Mom would not have missed if not for Alzheimer's.  Mom...your presence was strong and with us every day of our journey.

As you might know from reading previous postings, Mom was transferred to a new single room in the 'lock down' section of the Lodge while I was away - mid September. This move was not because Mom is a wanderer (she can't walk), but rather had a lot to do with providing her with the best care at this stage of her life.  In this wing, there are fewer residents - it is a more intimate space. The ratio of caregiver to resident is higher than in the main lodge. So that means she's getting more personal attention and care. Her room is at the end of this wing, and is smaller, cozy and quiet, with a lovely view of the trees outside her window.

For the most part, Mom is doing fine. Some days she has a reoccurring issue with her neck which gets into a hyper-extended position, which seems to go hand-in-hand with congestion, making it a challenge for her to eat and drink.  The staff are not sure why this happens and when it does, they keep a close eye on her. Sometimes they have to use a suction machine to try and extract some of the fluid that gets trapped in the base of her throat.

Other days, she sits up right, seemingly stronger and more alert.  Overall, her disposition is quiet, peaceful and she smiles frequently.  I have a sense the move to this wing was a good one for her.  One of her Caregivers mentioned to me she feels Mom is in the best place possible and has really noticed how she is experiencing less agitation and seems more content and comfortable.

Mom continues to become more introverted - as in she has frequent and longer periods where she goes inward and seems to be in her own world, unaware of her outer surroundings.   When she is experiencing an ability to connect with her outer world and you are there visiting at that time, it's such a gift- a word or two of recognition, a touch and a brilliant 'I know you' smile!